Lent
Lent begins February 18. During Lent, running roughly 40 days between Ash Wednesday and Easter, we are invited to a "holy observance...by self-examination and repentance; by prayer, fasting, and self-denial; and by reading and meditating on God’s holy Word" (Book of Common Prayer, 265). Explore our curated resources for Lent to help you and your family step back from your daily routine and more fully participate in this time of preparation and reflection as we prepare to walk with Jesus to the cross.
Mardi Gras
Join us on Tuesday, February 17th at 5:30 PM for a Mardi Gras themed splendid pancake supper to celebrate Shrove Tuesday. Prices are quite reasonable for the feast! Adults $5, ages 10-18 $3, and under 10 are free. Bring guests and expect a wonderfully fun experience for all ages.
ash wednesday february 18th
12:00 PM (Communion)
6:00 PM (Communion) (Service is available on Zoom)
Lenten Offerings
STATIONS OF THE CROSS:
The Stations of the Cross (also called the Way of the Cross) is a traditional liturgical devotion commemorating the last day of Jesus’ life. Each Friday, a member of the congregation will lead a participatory meditation involving reading parts of the meditation as everyone moves from one station to the next. Every Friday at 5 PM in the nave.
More Resources for Lent
Click to Explore the Diocesan Resource Page
HOLY WEEK
As the church approaches Holy Week, here is a summary of the services offered at St. Matthew’s. If you are new to St. Matthew’s and the Episcopal Church, you are highly encouraged to attend Holy Week services, especially the worship services on Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and the Great Vigil of Easter. These services flow from one to the next forming what is called the Triduum (Three Days). Over the course of the Triduum we experience the fullness of the Christian faith and salvation history as revealed in the person of Jesus Christ.
The Sunday of the Passion: Palm Sunday
Palm Sunday in the Episcopal Church is a dual commemoration that marks Jesus Christ's triumphal entry into Jerusalem with the waving of palm branches and it also reflects on the events leading to his crucifixion. The service typically begins with a joyful outdoor procession (weather permitting), symbolizing Jesus' welcome into Jerusalem, followed by readings recounting his passion and death. The liturgy captures both the excitement of Palm Sunday and the solemnity of Christ's passion, setting the stage for Holy Week's reflection on the central themes of redemption and salvation. Sunday, March 29 at 8:00 AM and 10:00 AM.
Maundy Thursday
The significance of Maundy Thursday to Christians stems from its origin in the Latin word "mandatum," meaning "commandment," referencing Jesus' commandment to love one another as he loved them. This day commemorates the Last Supper, where Jesus shared bread and wine, instituting the Eucharist, and washed the feet of his disciples, symbolizing humility and service. It marks the beginning of the Easter Triduum. The special service on Maundy Thursday is a remembrance of these events, fostering reflection on Jesus' sacrifice, love, and teachings, emphasizing themes of forgiveness, unity, and selflessness. Thursday, April 2 at 6:00 PM.
Good Friday
Good Friday commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, marking the pinnacle of his sacrificial journey for humanity's redemption. It is a day of solemn reflection, acknowledging the magnitude of Jesus' suffering and death on the cross. The special service on Good Friday calls us to deeply contemplate the significance of Jesus' sacrifice, his unconditional love, and the promise of salvation. Following the service in the church, those who want to continue the Good Friday observance will carry the cross in procession to the Hill of the Crosses on Horizon Dr. as we pray the Stations of the Cross. Friday, April 3 at Noon.
The Great Vigil of Easter
The Great Vigil of Easter is the most significant and richly symbolic service of the church year. It is the first celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ, signifying God’s victory over death and the fulfillment of God's promise of salvation. This special service, held on Holy Saturday evening, symbolizes the transition from darkness to light, reflecting the journey from despair to hope. Through rituals like the lighting of the Paschal candle and the proclamation of the Exsultet, we rejoice in the resurrection, and renew our baptismal vows, embracing the transformative power of Christ's triumph over sin and death. Saturday, April 4 at 7:30 PM.
Monday-Friday during Holy Week
• 9:00AM Morning Prayer, Zoom/Facebook Live
• Anytime - self-guided Stations of the Cross on YouTube. Be sure to click the bottom-right to proceed to the stations, or the bottom-left to return to a station.
Father Steve and Deacon Rich will be available for spiritual direction and/or Reconciliation of a Penitent by appointment.
Easter Sunday
April 5th
• 8:00 AM Easter Day and Holy Communion, in person
• 10:00AM Easter Day Holy Communion, in person and livestream on Zoom/FB Live. Egg hunt and brunch to follow the 10AM service.
Suggested Activities During Lent
Lent is an opportunity to undertake a special act of devotion or worship. Some possibilities include:
· Church. Join us online or watch our Facebook live for Sunday Morning Prayer with homily.
· Prayer. Join us online or watch Facebook live for Morning Prayer. Monday through Friday at 9AM. Click here for the zoom link. Call the office at 970-242-3293 for the password.
· Holy Scripture. Some set aside time to read the Bible, or read a specific book, or take time to read the Bible as a family.
· Generosity. Some give to charity. Some take up work with a food bank or other organization.
· Special Devotion. Some will fast on Fridays or some other day, or for a meal, as an act of devotion. Others might walk the labyrinth at St. Matthew’s.
Robes and slippers
This Lent we are again collecting new robes and slippers for folks in nursing homes, as well as Easter cards. Your generosity is appreciated!